Popcorn Clouds Over Southeastern India and Sri Lanka

Southeastern India and Sri Lanka are covered by small, white clouds often referred to as “popcorn” clouds due to their dotted appearance. They are often the product of rapid plant growth.

During periods of little rain, the plants get more sunlight. This leads to more growth and more photosynthesis, which releases water vapor into the air through transpiration. The warm, wet air rises and cools, causing the water vapor to condense into small, fluffy white clouds that resemble popcorn, as can be seen here.